De Pijp

an area of international cuisine; plenty of bars, cafés and restaurants; daily food market; Saphartipark for recreation

De Pijp, known as Amsterdam's Quartier Latin, situated in the southern part of Amsterdam and a short tram ride (take tram 16, 24, or 25 from Dam Square) away from the bustle in the streets of central Amsterdam, is one of the most cosmopolitan and vibrant districts of Amsterdam. The inhabitants, the narrow streets, the many cafes and restaurants and the atmosphere of De Pijp are all reminiscent of the famous Parisian students' quarter.

Terrace at café De Pilsvogel, nearby the Albert Cuyp Market in Amsterdam

No one really knows what the name "De Pijp" stands for. Some people say it owes its name to the long and narrow streets that resemble pipes or to the infamous gas company, the 'Pipe', which used to supply energy to the area.

Formerly a working class quarter built to ease the overpopulated Jordaan in the 19th century and to house labourers, De Pijp nowadays is a melting pot of cultures and nationalities. In De Pijp 144 nationalities live together. It is one of the most popular residential, shopping and entertainment areas in Amsterdam. Thanks to scores of artists and students in search of a cheap room to rent, De Pijp has become a lively bohemian district. Today, De Pijp is so popular that house prices have gone up dramatically.

Albert Cuypmarkt

You'll find many exotic and authentic Syrian, Moroccan, Surinamese restaurants, Spanish, Indian and Turkish delicatessens and grocery stores. But the biggest attraction of De Pijp is a visit to the Albert Cuyp Market, Amsterdam's largest and busiest market. It is held from Mondays through Saturdays along Albert Cuypstraat, between Van Woustraat and Ferdinand Bolstraat.

In the Heineken Brewery on Stadhouderskade you can see how beer is traditionally brewed.

Nightlife

Like the Jordaan quarter, de Pijp has plenty of fantastic cafés, restaurants, and shops. The many cafes and restaurants in Frans Halsstraat, at Marie Heinekenplein and the streets around Gerard Douplein are tremendously popular.